Everyone in cannabis talks about effects-based products — almost no one can deliver them consistently.

Repeatable experiences require precision and formulation discipline that looks a lot more like pharma than cannabis.

And here’s why: most operators don’t treat in-house analytics as essential. But that’s the mistake.

Process control isn’t optional — it’s the foundation for delivering the same experience every single time.

This week we sit down with Chris Emerson, Founder of LEVEL, to break down:
• How true effects-based products are actually built
• The analytics and standardization required for repeatability
• Why most teams can’t achieve consistency — and what it takes to fix it

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chris Emerson and Level

03:07 The Journey into Cannabis and Product Development

06:02 Challenges in Consistency and Formulation

08:48 Navigating the Market and Consumer Education

12:05 The Role of Cannabinoids and Future Innovations

14:56 Expanding Beyond California: Challenges and Strategies

27:32 The Importance of Consistency in Product Quality

29:51 Navigating the Medical vs Recreational Cannabis Landscape

33:03 Advanced Analytics in Cannabis Production

36:02 Innovations in Product Formulation and Consumer Experience

39:56 Strategic Approaches to Hemp and Cannabinoid Research

45:00 Exploring the Future of Cannabinoids and Consumer Education

Summary

In this conversation, Chris Emerson, founder of Level, shares his journey from academia to the cannabis industry, discussing the challenges and innovations in product development. He emphasizes the importance of effects-based formulations, consistency in product quality, and the need for consumer education in a rapidly evolving market. The discussion also touches on the future of cannabinoid products and the strategies for expanding into new markets while maintaining quality and consistency. In this conversation, Chris Emerson discusses the complexities of cannabis production, emphasizing the importance of consistency and advanced analytics in ensuring product quality. He explores the challenges faced by the medical cannabis market as it competes with recreational use, and shares insights on the evolving landscape of cannabinoid research, particularly focusing on the Varin class and acidic cannabinoids. The discussion also touches on strategic approaches to hemp and the significance of consumer education in navigating the cannabis industry.

Guest Links:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-emerson-ph-d-464b245a/
• https://www.instagram.com/level.experience
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/levelexperience/
• https://levelexperience.com/

Our Links:

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights.

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

https://www.newton-insights.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tobacco and alcohol are already laying the groundwork for cannabis — building IP, infrastructure, and data.

Nick Kenney breaks down what legacy industries already understand — how regulated markets are built, and why readiness always beats speed.

This week we sit down with Nick Kenny to discuss:
• How tobacco and alcohol are entering cannabis
• The playbook for building standardized, scalable systems
• Why predictability and timing will define the next wave of winners

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Cannabis Industry Journey

02:54 The Evolution of Cannabis Perception

06:02 Navigating Regulatory Challenges

08:48 Tobacco and Alcohol Industry Perspectives

11:59 The Role of Research and Development

14:58 Long-Term Strategies vs. Short-Term Survival

18:10 Consumer Behavior and Market Trends

21:03 The Importance of Data in Decision Making

23:58 Collaboration and Networking in the Industry

27:04 Future Outlook and Industry Innovations

Summary

In this episode, Bryan Fields and Kellan Finney engage with Nick Kenney, a Global Strategic Advisor, to explore the evolving landscape of the cannabis industry. Nick shares his journey from the tobacco sector to cannabis, highlighting the significant shifts in perception and investment within the industry. The conversation delves into the regulatory challenges, the perspectives of tobacco and alcohol companies, and the importance of research and development. They discuss the need for long-term strategies, the impact of consumer behavior, and the critical role of data in decision-making. Nick emphasizes the value of networking and collaboration in the cannabis space, while also providing insights into future innovations and market trends.

Guest Links:

• https://www.kbsstrategicadvisors.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/kbsstrategicadvisory/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasjkenny/

Our Links:

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights.

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

https://www.newton-insights.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Before Target and DoorDash, Edible Arrangements joined the cannabinoid space.

Supply chains look a lot different when you can lean on national infrastructure, logistics, and distribution that already exist.

Through Edibles.com, the company is using that foundation to build access — curating top brands and letting customers shop the way they understand best: by experience.

Could this platform and distribution model become the Amazon of cannabinoids?

This week we sit down with Thomas Winstanley to discuss:

• The strategy and roadmap behind Edibles.com

• Balancing risk and regulation in an uncertain market

• How infrastructure and logistics unlock national access

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Cannabis Space

02:56 Thomas Winstanley's Journey in Cannabis

06:06 Understanding Edibles.com

08:50 Curating Products for Consumers

12:01 Building Trust with Brands

15:01 Navigating Market Dynamics

18:10 Supply Chain and Distribution Strategies

27:06 Leveraging Internal Resources for Competitive Advantage

29:32 Exploring Innovative Product Offerings

31:57 Strategic Growth and Investment Considerations

32:31 The Importance of Retail in Consumer Engagement

39:03 Navigating Regulatory Challenges in the Hemp Industry

48:07 Defining Success and Future Opportunities

Summary

In this episode, Bryan Fields and Kellen Finney engage with Thomas Winstanley of Edibles.com, exploring his journey in the cannabis industry, the mission of Edibles.com, and the complexities of product curation and market dynamics. Thomas shares insights on building trust with brands, navigating the evolving landscape of cannabis and hemp, and the importance of consumer education in this burgeoning market. In this conversation, Thomas Winstanley discusses the competitive advantages of Edibles.com, the importance of innovative product offerings, and the strategic growth considerations for the company. He emphasizes the significance of retail in enhancing consumer engagement and navigating the regulatory challenges within the hemp industry. Winstanley also outlines his vision for success and future opportunities for Edibles.com, highlighting the need for compliance and adaptability in a rapidly changing market.

Guest Links:

• https://www.instagram.com/thomasrwinstanley/
• https://x.com/thomwinstanley
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/ediblesdotcom/
• http://edibles.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/ediblescom/
• https://x.com/ediblesdotcom

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights.

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

https://www.newton-insights.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when years of iteration, engineering, and a unique understanding of the plant align?
In cannabis, building hardware is walking a tightrope — precision, timing, and vision all matter.

Singular, the latest release from Active710, connects that entire loop.
While most will gravitate toward its sleek, modular design, the real story lies in how it solves major operational challenges — and unlocks a world of future opportunity.

This week, Alex Kwon joins The Dime to discuss:
• The major unlock behind Singular — and what makes it a platform, not a product
• How Active710 is leaning into sustainability, engineering, and consumer choice
• What’s next for cannabis hardware — and why modular design changes everything

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Singular and the Vape Industry

04:12 Challenges and Innovations in Vape Technology

10:55 Sustainability and Future-Proofing Vape Solutions

14:46 Inspiration from the E-Juice and Tobacco Industries

19:12 Customer Feedback and Iterative Development

23:13 Innovative Pod Systems and Their Functionality

30:08 The Future of Vape Technology

37:41 Iterative Product Development and Consumer Feedback

Summary

In this episode, Bryan Fields and Kellen Finney welcome back Alex Kwan to discuss the launch of Singular, a groundbreaking modular vape platform. Alex shares insights into the challenges faced in the vape industry, the importance of sustainability, and how customer feedback has shaped the development of this innovative product. The conversation also explores the influence of the e-juice and tobacco industries on vape technology and the future direction of the market. In this conversation, Alex discusses the innovative aspects of their new pod system, emphasizing its modularity and compatibility with various oil types. He highlights the importance of consumer choice and access to quality cannabis products. The discussion also covers the iterative process of product development, the challenges faced, and the excitement surrounding future advancements in vape technology.

Guest Links:

• http://www.futureofvape.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/active710/
• https://active710.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/avd710/

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights.

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

https://www.newton-insights.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when a Silicon Valley exec who helped Lyft rewrite the rules brings that same playbook to cannabis?

This week we sit down with Ashwin Raj, CEO of LeafLink, to break down how disciplined tech thinking and first-principle strategy can reshape a fragmented industry.

In this episode:
• How Lyft’s regulatory battles mirror cannabis today
• Why listening — not speed — builds trust and loyalty
• How data, discipline, and adaptability will drive the next era of cannabis tech

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ashwin Raj and LeafLink

02:02 Ashwin's Journey to the Cannabis Industry

04:29 Navigating Challenges in the Cannabis Space

07:19 Listening to Customers: The Key to Success

10:05 Addressing Pricing Challenges

13:11 Building Trust with Customers

14:15 Balancing Competing Customer Needs

16:25 Strategic Focus and Resource Allocation

19:45 Long-Term Vision for LeafLink

21:03 The Role of Technology in Cannabis

23:05 Identifying Customer Needs

26:53 Overcoming Industry Challenges

30:45 The Impact of AI on LeafLink

32:01 The Future of the Cannabis Industry

36:10 The Role of Hemp in the Cannabis Market

42:04 Building Trust with Retailers

45:11 AI and Future Innovations at LeafLink

Summary

In this episode, Bryan Fields and Kellen Finney interview Ashwin Raj, CEO of LeafLink, who shares his journey from the tech industry to the cannabis space. Ashwin discusses the challenges and opportunities within the cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of listening to customers and building relationships with both clients and team members. He highlights the role of technology and efficiency in driving growth and the impact of the hemp industry on the cannabis market. Ashwin also touches on the need for regulatory clarity and the potential of AI in enhancing LeafLink's offerings.

Guest Links:

• https://www.leaflink.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/leaflink/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/tashwinraj/

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights.

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

https://www.newton-insights.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Setbacks early on can reshape everything.
They can alter your future strategy, shift your appetite for risk, and — if you’re patient — quietly set you up for success while others chase growth at any cost.

As with any company, “figuring it out” is part of the job. And sometimes, that figuring it out happens faster than you’d ever hope.

The challenges you face early in your cannabis journey become the lens you see the world through — for better or worse. Those lessons, combined with the financial discipline from previous chapters of life, shape your decision-making, your culture, and your tolerance for this chaotic industry.

And as cannabis braces for consolidation and a $6B debt wall, that slow, methodical approach might prove to be the ultimate advantage.

This week we sit down with Jared Maloof, CEO of Standard Wellness, to discuss:
• How early mistakes built long-term discipline
• Why focused, prudent capital deployment became Standard’s superpower
• The playbook across Utah, Ohio, and beyond
• Conversations with Carl Icahn

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Cannabis Journey

02:55 Transitioning into the Cannabis Industry

06:10 Challenges in the Early Days

09:07 Expanding into New Markets

11:58 Navigating Regulatory Differences

15:06 Operational Efficiencies and Vertical Integration

17:55 The Future of Cannabis Expansion

25:52 Navigating the Licensing Landscape

27:40 Market Dynamics and Qualifying Conditions

29:12 Interstate Commerce Considerations

31:43 The Impact of Hemp on the Cannabis Market

34:25 Consumer Perception and Market Competition

38:20 The Future of Cannabis Beverages

40:16 Opportunities Amidst Industry Challenges

44:20 Leveraging AI in Cannabis Operations

46:15 The Importance of Uplifting for Industry Growth

Summary

In this episode, Bryan Fields and Kellen Finney engage with Jared Maloof, CEO of Standard Wellness, to explore the evolving landscape of the cannabis industry. Jared shares his journey from finance to cannabis, detailing the challenges faced in Ohio's market, the strategic decisions made for expansion into states like Utah, and the complexities of operating in a highly regulated environment. The conversation also touches on the impact of external factors, the role of AI in operations, and the future prospects of the cannabis market.

Guest Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/standard-wellness-company/

https://www.standardwellness.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredmaloof/

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights.

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

https://www.newton-insights.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Building something that lasts takes more than money — it takes self-belief, grit, and the willingness to keep pushing forward when easier options present themselves.

Putting your name on it only adds to the weight — and the responsibility — to make it work.

As with anything worth doing, there are difficult moments along the journey that demand a leap of faith.

If you want to be different, you have to be willing to swim against the current — to stand out long enough for customers to find their fit.

Daniel LaRusso was that choice for Chris Ball. A nod to his movie-buff personality, the name sent a subtle but direct message to his audience about grit, discipline, and staying true to the craft.

These decisions are easy to reflect on now, but the journey was anything but simple.

This week we sit down with Chris Ball, Founder of Ball Family Farms, to discuss:

• The journey from origin to now — and the critical decisions that shaped it
• How he’s constantly tinkering forward to stay ahead
• The Rare Breed mentorship program and its impact on the next generation of growers

Summary

In this episode, Chris Ball, CEO of Ball Family Farms, shares his journey from the legacy cannabis market to establishing a successful legal cannabis business. He discusses the importance of family in building his brand, the challenges of navigating the cannabis industry, and the significance of quality over quantity in product development. Chris also highlights the role of mentorship through his Rare Breed program, which aims to nurture new talent in the cannabis space. He emphasizes the need for innovation while maintaining a connection to the community and culture of cannabis. The conversation concludes with insights into the realities of being a CEO in the cannabis industry and the importance of resilience and adaptability.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chris Ball and His Journey

03:05 The Birth of Ball Family Farms

05:58 Building the Family Business

09:01 Branding and Marketing Strategies

11:55 The Power of Unique Strain Names

15:12 Recognizing Success and Growth

17:53 Expanding the Strain Lineup

21:00 Navigating Challenges and Decisions

24:00 Trusting the Process and Team

26:48 Collaboration with Hood Baby

28:09 Lessons from the COVID Crash

29:37 Building a Stronger Team

31:34 Recognizing Talent in the Industry

33:52 The Importance of Mentorship

37:31 Balancing Innovation and Tradition

46:32 The Rare Breed Program: Nurturing New Talent

Guest Links

• https://www.instagram.com/chrisball45/?hl=en
• https://x.com/BallFamilyFrms
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/ball-family-farms/
• https://www.ballfamilyfarms.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/ballfamilyfarms

Our Links

Bryan Fields on Twitter

Kellan Finney on Twitter

The Dime on Twitter

Extraction Teams: Want to cut costs and get more out of every run? Unlock hidden revenue by extracting more from the same input—with Newton Insights.

At Eighth Revolution (8th Rev), we provide services from capital to cannabinoid and everything in between in the cannabinoid industry.

The Dime is a top 5% most shared global podcast

The Dime is a top 10 Cannabis Podcast

The Dime has a New Website. Shhhh its not finished.

🎥 YouTube: The Dime

📸 Instagram: The Dime

https://www.newton-insights.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.